Irish Schools rue missed chances in losing to deserving Aussies

Alan ‘Barney’ McGonigle, Ireland Schools tour manager, talking to Richard Mulligan of the Belfast Newsletter, expressed his and the squad’s disappointment at not winning the test match against Australia, but also reflected on the benefits of the experience for this promising crop of schoolboys.

“We were off the pace in the first half, failed to take a few opportunities that came our way and at test match level it is crucial to make the most of the chances when they come.
“We gave a good account of ourselves in previous matches and went into this game unbeaten. It was a shame we could not repeat the feat of other tours in going through with a 100 per cent record, but it has been a good learning curve for the boys’ said McGonigle.

“They have done their clubs, provinces and country proud and have developed well as players and individuals and had a great experience.

“This is the country to tour given the conditions for training and team bonding as well as the facilities for training and playing matches. It will bode them well in the years ahead.”

The Ireland camp were delighted with the support shown back home. McGonigle said: “We received a host of faxes to the hotel wishing the team well including one signed by the entire Leinster team, one from Portadown and the News Letter sports desk. “Those are just a few I can highlight, it was just amazing the number we received and the boys were really lifted by the support,” he added.

The touring party are due back in Dublin tomorrow at 9am.